Many people are saying “it is over” for Pakistan. This message is being repeated again and again especially on social media. But the real question is why is this narrative being pushed at a time when many things are actually being fixed and reorganized?
Every country goes through difficult phases especially when systems are being reformed. During such times, negative propaganda spreads easily because people are already tired and frustrated. For young people this constant negativity creates hopelessness. Instead of encouraging us to question, build and improve, it tells us to give up. Calling everything “over” during a transition period is not realism, it is discouraged.
As young people, we often compare Pakistan with other countries and feel disappointed. But we forget one important fact every country has its own problems. Developed countries struggle with inflation, racism, mental health crises and political division. Developing countries struggle with jobs, governance and stability. Pakistan also has challenges like economic pressure, political instability and social issues but that does not mean Pakistan is a failed or hopeless country. Problems do not define failure. What matters is how a country responds to those problems. Pakistan is still standing, still functioning and still trying to improve. That itself shows resilience.
If we honestly compare Pakistan of 2008 with Pakistan of 2025, we can clearly see improvement. In 2008, long power outages were normal, terrorism was at its peak, internet access was limited and digital services barely existed.
Today, electricity supply has improved, terrorism has reduced significantly and internet and mobile access has reached millions. Online banking, mobile wallets, freelancing platforms and digital services have opened new doors for youth. Roads, motorways, public transport systems and communication infrastructure are far better than before.
Education access has expanded and more young people are entering universities and skill-based programs. Pakistan is not perfect but it is not stuck either.
The events of May 10, 2025 were important for Pakistan, especially for young people watching regional politics closely. Pakistan showed that it can defend itself without creating unnecessary conflict. The response was controlled, responsible and strategic. This sent a strong message Pakistan wants peace but it will not compromise on its sovereignty. Internationally, Pakistan’s position was understood better and the country showed maturity rather than aggression. For youth, this moment proved that strength does not always mean war it can also mean restraint and confidence.
Pakistan has faced serious internal challenges due to external interference and proxy networks. These challenges affected security, economy and social harmony. Over time, Pakistan improved its response by strengthening intelligence coordination, improving border security and using technology to track and prevent threats. False narratives and misinformation were also countered more actively especially online. While challenges still exist, they are no longer ignored or underestimated. For young people, this shows that the state has learned from past mistakes and is adapting to modern forms of conflict.
From 2022 to 2025, Pakistan’s foreign policy became more balanced. Relations with the United States improved in a more respectful and realistic way. Instead of dependency, cooperation focused on trade, climate change, education and security. Pakistan also maintained good relations with other global partners, showing that it can make independent decisions. For Gen-Z, this matters because foreign policy affects visas, education exchanges, job markets and global opportunities. A more confident and balanced Pakistan creates more space for youth on the global stage.
In recent years, India’s relations with its neighbors have become more strained. Conflicts, border disputes and rigid policies have reduced trust in the region. Pakistan, on the other hand, has tried to engage through diplomacy, dialogue and regional cooperation. By raising issues at international forums and supporting multilateral platforms, Pakistan has kept itself relevant in South Asia. This has slowly shifted the regional balance. For young Pakistanis, this shows that diplomacy and dialogue can be more powerful than aggression.
Between 2023 and 2025, more attention was given to youth-focused initiatives. Digital skills programs, IT training, freelancing support and startup funding created new opportunities. Many young people started earning online, working with international clients and building businesses from their homes. Education reforms focused more on technology and practical skills. Youth were also given more platforms to express opinions through digital governance tools and policy discussions. These steps may not solve everything, but they show recognition of youth as a national asset, not a burden.
As young people, frustration is natural. We face unemployment, inflation and uncertainty about the future. But saying “it is over” closes the door on change. Pakistan is not a finished story; it is a work in progress. Progress is slow, imperfect, and often painful, but it exists. The future of Pakistan is closely linked with its youth. Giving up is easy. Staying engaged, questioning constructively and contributing is harder but that is how countries move forward. For Pakistan, it is not over. It is still being written and Gen-Z is holding the pen.
